O'Connor storms to 200m IM gold at British Champs

March 2, 2018

Commonwealth champion Siobhan-Marie O’Connor warmed up for her trip to Australia’s Gold Coast to defend her title by cruising to victory in the 200m Individual Medley at the British Swimming Championships 2018.

The 22-year-old University of Bath swimmer struck gold after leading from start to finish at Edinburgh as she clocked 2.12:26.

O’Connor said: “I’m really pleased with the swims I have done here. It’s good to win the 200m IM among some amazing girls.

“It’s been a really good week and I’m excited to finish my final training preparations for the Commonwealth Games.”

O’Connor returned to the water later in the session to land silver in the 100m Breaststroke.

While’s Spain’s Jessica Vall won the race in 1:07.21, Welsh swimmer Chloe Tutton took the British title in 1:08.21.

O’Connor was the second Brit home in 1:08.31 while Loughborough University’s Molly Renshaw – bronze medallist for England at the 2014 Commonwealths over 200m Breast – completed the British podium on 1:08.99.

Jay Lelliott lands first British title in 400m Free

In the men’s 400m freestyle, British record holder James Guy was beaten to gold by City of Sheffield’s Jay Lelliott.

Guy left himself too much to do after a slow start and 23-year-old Lelliott took full advantage as he took his first British title in 3.50:85.

Lelliott said: “It’s always nice to hear the words British champion. I’ve never been one before. I wish it was a bit quicker but I cannot complain too much about that.”